Atlantic County Travel Guide

Plan a perfect vacation in Atlantic County with our travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, local cuisine, cultural attractions, and safety tips for a great trip.


Introduction to Atlantic County

Atlantic County is located in the heart of Jersey Shore in New Jersey, Mid-Atlantic. The county has a population of over 260,000 and covers an area of 671 square miles. The famous Atlantic City and other popular beach towns like Ventnor and Margate are located in Atlantic County.

With a thriving food and drink scene, world-class museums, stunning beaches, unique cultural attractions, and easy transportation options, Atlantic County offers a perfect destination for a memorable vacation with your loved ones.

List of Places to Visit in Atlantic County

Here are some of the must-visit places in Atlantic County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Absecon Lighthouse - Climb the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and enjoy a spectacular view of the Atlantic City skyline and the ocean.
  • Atlantic City Historical Museum - Learn about the fascinating history of Atlantic City through photographs, exhibits, and artifacts.
  • Noyes Museum of Art - Explore the works of regional artists and the cultural history of South Jersey.

Natural Attractions of Atlantic County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ocean City Beach - The wide, clean, and family-friendly beach offers a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.
  • Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge - A perfect destination for bird-watchers, this wetland refuge is home to over 300 species of birds.
  • Bass River State Forest - This 29,000-acre forest offers hiking, biking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Atlantic County

  • Atlantic County Bikeway - This 7.6-mile trail runs from Somers Point to Egg Harbor Township, passing through scenic views of marshes and woodlands.
  • Estell Manor Park - This 1,700-acre park offers 14 miles of trails through pine forests, wetlands, and streams.

Best Things to Do in Atlantic County: Activities and Tours

  • Atlantic City Boardwalk - Take a stroll along the famous boardwalk, shop at the stores, enjoy the amusement park rides, and indulge in the local cuisine.
  • Atlantic City Casinos - Try your luck at the popular casinos like Borgata, Harrah’s, and Caesars.
  • Whale Watching Tours - Take a boat tour and experience the thrill of watching whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Atlantic County

Day 1: Explore Atlantic City Boardwalk, visit the casinos, and dine at local restaurants. Day 2: Visit Absecon Lighthouse, Atlantic City Historical Museum, and the Steel Pier amusement park. Day 3: Take a whale-watching tour or a fishing trip. Day 4: Spend a day at Ocean City Beach, rent bikes, and explore the town. Day 5: Visit Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and Estell Manor Park. Day 6: Take a guided tour of Noyes Museum of Art and Historic Gardner’s Basin. Day 7: Go for a hike at Bass River State Forest and enjoy a picnic.

Food and Drink Scene of Atlantic County

Atlantic County’s food and drink scene is diverse and vibrant, with many local specialties and international cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Saltwater Taffy - A popular sweet treat made from sugar, cornstarch, corn syrup, and salt, available in many flavors.
  • Pork Roll and Cheese - The iconic breakfast sandwich, featuring pork roll, egg, and cheese on a roll.
  • Tomato Pie - A unique pizza-like dish with a thin crust, tomato sauce, and grated cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Jersey Devil Vodka - Made from the finest corn and wheat, this award-winning vodka has a smooth and crisp taste.
  • Flying Fish Brewing Company - This popular brewery produces a variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and ales.
  • Tuckahoe Brewing Company - Known for its locally sourced and sustainable beers, this brewery offers a unique beer-tasting experience with a friendly atmosphere.

Where to Stay in Atlantic County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Atlantic County offers a wide range of accommodation options for different budgets and preferences. From luxurious resorts and hotels to cozy guesthouses and hostels, there is something for everyone.

Some of the best options are:

  • The Claridge - A Radisson Hotel - This elegant hotel offers a beachfront location, a rooftop bar, and spacious rooms with ocean views.
  • The Chelsea Pub and Inn - This charming boutique hotel features a cozy restaurant and bar, comfortable rooms with vintage decor, and a central location.
  • The Fox and the Mermaid Bed and Breakfast - This unique guesthouse has a nautical theme and offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a garden.

What to Buy in Atlantic County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Atlantic County offers many unique and locally made products that make excellent souvenirs and gifts. Some of the best options are:

  • Lucy the Elephant Souvenirs - Bring home a cute and quirky souvenir of the famous elephant-shaped building, featuring t-shirts, mugs, and keychains.
  • Atlantic City Chocolate Coins - These delicious chocolates have the Atlantic City skyline embossed on them and come in different flavors.
  • Beach Plum Jelly - Made from locally grown beach plums, this sweet and tangy jelly is a perfect gift for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Atlantic County

Atlantic County has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by Native Americans, European settlers, and African Americans. The locals are friendly and open-minded, and there’s a strong sense of community spirit.

Some of the customs and traditions include:

  • Summer Beach Culture - The beaches of Atlantic County are a popular destination for summer vacations, and locals and visitors alike enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
  • Boardwalk Strolling - Walking along the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk is a favorite pastime for locals and tourists alike, and it’s a great place to people watch and enjoy the ocean breeze.
  • Fishing and Crabbing - Fishing and crabbing are popular recreational activities in Atlantic County, and many locals enjoy catching their own dinner.

Best Time to Visit Atlantic County

The best time to visit Atlantic County is between May and September when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are open. The peak season is during the summer months, especially July and August when many festivals and events take place.

If you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons, April-May or September-October, when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower. The winter months are also a good time to visit if you don’t mind the cold weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Atlantic County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Atlantic County:

Do:

  • Do try the local specialties like saltwater taffy, pork roll, and tomato pie.
  • Do explore the beaches, boardwalks, and outdoor attractions of Atlantic County.
  • Do respect the locals, their customs, and their traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute the environment.
  • Don’t gamble more than you can afford at the casinos.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture and values.

Safety and Health

Atlantic County is generally a safe and healthy destination, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Safety in Atlantic County

  • Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.
  • Take precautions against pickpocketing and theft.
  • Observe the beach and water safety rules and regulations.

Health in Atlantic County

  • Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid summer months.
  • Apply sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun.
  • Check for ticks and other insects in wooded areas and wear insect repellent as necessary.

Getting to Atlantic County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Atlantic County is easily accessible from major cities in the United States, with many convenient transportation options.

Airports Near Atlantic County

  • Atlantic City International Airport - Located in Egg Harbor Township, this airport offers domestic and international flights.
  • Philadelphia International Airport - Located 1 hour away from Atlantic County, this airport offers international and domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Atlantic County

  • Atlantic City Bus Terminal - Located in the heart of Atlantic City and offers bus services to different destinations.
  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in Pleasantville, this station offers bus services to different cities in the United States.

Other Options

  • Car Rental - Many car rental companies offer services in Atlantic County, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services - Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Atlantic County.

How to Get Around in Atlantic County

Getting around Atlantic County is easy and convenient, with many transportation options.

  • Public Transportation - NJ Transit offers bus services and the Atlantic City Jitney offers shuttle services in Atlantic City.
  • Car Rental - Many car rental companies offer services in Atlantic County, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.
  • Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services - Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Atlantic County.

Where to Go Next from Atlantic County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that are worth a visit:

  • Cape May - A beautiful seaside town with stunning Victorian architecture, beaches, and wildlife.
  • Philadelphia - Located about an hour away from Atlantic County, this historic city is famous for its museums, restaurants, and landmarks.
  • New York City - Located about 2 hours away from Atlantic County, this bustling metropolis offers endless opportunities for entertainment, shopping, and sightseeing.

Conclusion

Atlantic County offers a perfect destination for a memorable vacation with its stunning beaches, unique cultural attractions, diverse food and drink scene, and easy transportation options. Plan your trip today and experience the beauty and charm of Jersey Shore.

Atlantic City at night Atlantic City at night


    Egg Harbor City
    Margate
    Mays Landing
    Pleasantville